12/23/2025
One of the most amazing things about human beings is how adaptable we are; as much as we may struggle with discomfort and change, our brains and bodies will do what they need to do to adapt and survive, especially when we’re developing as tiny people.
And the things we do relationally as adults, we do for a reason.
As tiny people, we learned which sides of ourselves & which of our behaviors kept us safe and connected, and which behaviors produced contempt, disconnection, fear, boredom, anger, etc in our caregivers and families.
Our bodies remember, even if our conscious minds don’t.
And our patterns of behavior give us SO much information when we’re able to pause and zoom out a little.
It can be so helpful to look at your most frustrating habits and behaviors, the ones that you’d like to change, and see what they are doing for you.
Does your shame stop you from sharing your hurt feelings or sadness because you didn't receive comfort when you needed it?
Does your instinct to bolt at the first sign of conflict keep you from being rejected or from that familiar feeling of disappointing someone?
Does your hot temper stop you from giving people the chance to hurt you again?
Instead of further shaming ourselves for these protective parts, try to acknowledge the job they were trying to do; they exist for a reason.
Then get curious about the tender part that lives beneath the behavior.
What does that tender part need to feel?
What support does it need from you now?
This is how we change patterns. This is how we begin to come back to ourselves and begin to feel safer in the world and in our own bodies, by reconnecting with the parts of ourselves that were hidden away and still have unmet needs and learning how to meet them.
If you're interested in learning more about this way of relating to yourself, I'll be starting the next round of my program for Cycle Breakers in January - those who are working to heal and shift old patterns, and are looking to practice new ways of relating to self and others in a small, supportive group of like-minded people.
Space is very limited for this longer term program.
I'll be doing a live Q&A on Friday on Zoom to answer questions.
Sign up at the link below:
https://theeqschool.myflodesk.com/cyclebreakerqa12026